pages: CityCouncil/2018-05-15.pdf, 11
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CityCouncil | 2018-05-15 | 11 | Mayor Spencer stated the current Council has not gone down to one minute; inquired how the minority view would be addressed, such as if there are 48 speakers for one side, and only two on the other. Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft responded the reason for the speaker limits was primarily because meetings were going very late; the limits are not a method to weigh for or against, it is just to streamline the meetings. Vice Mayor Vella stated that she is concerned about restricting the time; Council cannot detract from one person because other people want to talk on the topic; if the concern is about time management, suggested having an estimated start time for items instead of stating the amount of time for each item. Mayor Spencer stated the problem with estimating a start time is the item cannot be heard ahead of that time because people may not come until the time stated. Vice Mayor Vella stated the time spent on each item should be composite time; there should be feedback in terms of time check; names of speakers could be put in order on a screen so each speaker knows when their time is nearing and to avoid frustration for folks who have been waiting; having an overall time check could be really helpful. The City Clerk continued the presentation. Councilmember Ezzy Ashcraft stated the Council time limits would be a good exercise in discipline for Council. Mayor Spencer stated it is also an exercise in reducing free speech and limiting public comment; it seems like the goal is to not have public meetings if the public is not allowed to express their comments or if they are limited to one minute. Councilmember Oddie stated the time amounts for the public can be addressed when the discussion reaches that point; regarding the time limits for Council, other cities have limits and perhaps each member should be more concise with questions and comments. In response to Mayor Spencer's inquiry, Councilmember Oddie stated the City of Oakland Council has a 10 minute limit which includes questions and comments; the limit can be flexible depending on the issue; for topics such as rent control, the limit does not have to be 10 minutes. Mayor Spencer stated for a vote to reducing the time, asking for four votes instead of just three makes a difference. Councilmember Matarrese stated requested the presentation be finished before Council addresses what is wanted. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council May 15, 2018 11 | CityCouncil/2018-05-15.pdf |